Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp Trek

Overview And Highlights

Trip Facts

Trip Type

Tea house / Camping

Grade

Moderate

Altitude

5,416 m

Transportation

Land

Group Size

1+

Best Season

Spring and Autumn

Annapurna Circuit trek is one of the most classic and rewarding treks in Nepal. The Annapurna Circuit passes through southern slopes of Manaslu and Annapurna ranges that are heavily settled and farmed except the higher regions which support thick forests of Rhododendron and fir. Most of the tribes inhabiting this area are Gurungs, Magars, Chehettris and Newars. Thakali and Mustang tribes control the busy trading and pilgrimage trail along the Kali Gandaki. One of the most striking significances of Annapurna Circuit Trek is that you have spectacular views of most of the mountains in this range every day.  

On the other hand, Annapurna Base Camp is a natural amphiteater ringed by Annapurna South and Annapurna I, Barahashikhar, Gangapurna and the holy mountain Macchapucchre (Fish Tail). The first few days are spent traveling through quaint villages and lush forests before reaching more barren and rugged terrain. The trail to Annapurna Base Camp threads up the valley into the sanctuary where it gradually gives way to a grey screed and scrub before reaching snow fields, there are no villages to speak of for five days. 

Annapurna Base Camp trek is a wonderful trek with some tremendous views, from base camp a labyrinth of mountains tower almost vertically above with Annapurna I in dominance. An hour or two is spent here taking in the high mountains before commencing the return journey. Five further days are taken returning to Pokhara. Annapurna Base Camp trek is a good introduction to higher altitude without being too strenuous.

Recognizing the importance of Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp treks, Nepal Environmental Treks & Expedition has combined both trekking routes that completes in 25 days duration. We truly believe that our 25 days Annapurna trek package can meet the requirements of every adventure enthusiasts. Those who have done this remarkable trek are very satisfied and appreciated. Those who wish to do this trek and make a memory that will last forever are kindly requested to contact us. We do not only design bespoke itinerary for you but also determined to offer you reasonable cost to suit your budget.  

Itinerary Expand All Close All

Food
Breakfast/lunch/dinner
Accomodation
Hotel
Elevation
1400

After early morning breakfast, our guide will pick you up from the hotel and take you to the bus station. Drive from Kathmandu to Bhulbhule via Besisahar, takes about eight hours. During the drive you will follow Trisuli and Marshyangdi Rivers passing through several villages and you will enjoy views of green hills and snowcapped mountains. From Kathmandu to Besisahar is paved road and from there to Bhulbule is graveled. Stay overnight at lodge.

Food
Breakfast/lunch/dinner
Accomodation
LODGE
Elevation
1410

Ahead the Marshyangdi valley forms a steep V-shape. Follow the winding mountain path down to Syange (1100m) and then climb steeply through sheer cliff-face some 200-300m above the riverbed. From here it is a few ups and downs before you reach Chamje. Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
1410

The first part of the trail descends to the Marshyangdi river at which point cross a suspension bridge and make a steep climb to Sattale (1550m). From here descend to a grassy riverbank that leads to the village of Tal (1700m) where you will find hotels and teahouses. Beyond Tal, the valley narrows and the path follows winding cliffs. You will pass through the small village of Karte (1900m.) and cross a suspension bridge as you approach the Mani entrance to Dharapani (1960m.).  Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
2675

Trek along the Dudh Khola that originates from the south face of Mt. Manaslu. With Annapurna II as your backdrop, you will arrive at the village of Bagarchhap, distinct with its prayer flags fluttering in the breeze and Buddhist monastery. Continue to climb through forests of pine and oak, before passing by Danaque (2210m.). The trail goes through flat path until you reach Chame where there are government offices, shops and hotels. Chame is the administrative headquarters of the Manang district.  Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
3100

With Lamjung Himal (6893m) sparkling in the morning sun, you climb the path up the valley, passing a huge apple orchard. The trail then enters fir and pine forest, and emerges out to a high, rocky cliff which is extremely steep that leads to Bhratang (2950m.). You now walk through a short stretch of pine forest as the path opens up to a wonderful vista of Annapurna II as well as Pisang Peak (6091m). Afterwards follow a long section of Mani wall to lower village of Pisang. Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
3440

Beyond Pisang, the trail climbs a steep ridge that affords good views of the Manang valley and Tilicho peak (7145m). Descending to Hungde (3320m), you come to wide plain of the Sabje Khola Valley from where the north-east face of Annapurna III and Annapurna IV (7525m) rises majestically. Further to this point you cross Marshyangdi Khola over a wooden bridge to the tiny village of Mungji. Mungji has large Chortens and mani walls and is surrounded by tall peaks of Annapurna II, Annapurna III, Annapurna IV, Gangapurna (7455m.) and Tilicho Peak (7145m.). A short steep climb from here reaches Manang. Stay overnight at lodge.

is an important rest day for acclimatization before crossing the Thorung La Pass. There are optional walks such as crossing the river to see the tremendous icefall coming down from the Annapurna, or climbing high above the village for a full panorama of the Annapurna range and the Manang Valley. Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
4350

This morning the trail ascends gently all the way to Yak Kharka passing through Gunsang village (3960m). En route, you can see panoramic mountain views all day long. Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
4420

Leaving Yak Kharka, you climb gradually to a ridge before descending to the headwaters of Marshyangdi. After a short ascend along the mountain path on the right bank, you follow a narrow trail across an unstable spree slope and then descend to Thorung Phedi.  Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
5416

Today will be a long day of walking so you will leave early morning. The trail becomes steep immediately and after around 4 hours of steady climbing, you see chorten and prayer flags fluttering from the Thorong La pass. Thorong La pass is one of the highest passes in the Annapurna region. Once you are at the pass, you will start your descent along the Jhong Khola Valley to Muktinath as the moraines eventually give way to grassy slopes. Muktinath is one of the most sacred places in the Himalaya for both Hindus and Buddhists. Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
2667

You now begin the descent down the dramatic Kali Gandaki Gorge, initially through arid country in the same geographical and climatic zone as Tibet. After passing through Jharkot and Khingar, villages with typical Tibetan architecture, you follow the valley floor most of the way to Jomsom. You continue down to Marpha, a delightful Thakali village, complete with a drainage system beneath the flagstone streets. Marpha is famous for apple and local apple brandy. Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
2010

Your trail passes through the bank of Kali Gandaki River. You will face fierce winds in this section during afternoon. While trekking from Marpha to Ghasa, you will pass Thakali villages such as Tukuche, Larjung, Kalopani and Lete. You will enjoy close-up views of Dhaulagiri, Tukuche peaks on the trek. Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
1190

The trail gradually descends to Tatopani passing through forests along with one of the most beautiful and longest Rupchechahara waterfalls. You will also have the opportunity to observe Kali Gandaki Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world formed between Annapurna and Dhaulagiri peaks. The magical views of Nilgiri South, Annapurna I are clearly visible from the trail. Tatopani is a natural hot spring where you can bath and relax. Locals believe the hot spring provides therapeutic treatment for those suffering from skin diseases. Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
2860

The trail ascends all the way to Ghorepani via Ghara and Sikha, two beautiful villages with mix of Gurung and Magar ethnic groups. The trail makes its way through terraced fields, forests and meadows while offering constant views of Dhaulagiri and Annapurna I. Ghorepani is a beautiful village and the most popular point for tourists in Annapurna region. Stay overnight in lodge. 

Elevation
3232

Poon Hill is a popular viewpoint to see sunrise/sunset and majestic views of Mt. Dhaulagiri (8167m.), Tukuche Peak (6920m.), Nilgiri (6940m.), Varaha Shikhar (7847m.), Mt. Annapurna I (8091m.), Annapurna South (7219m.), Annapurna III (7855m.), Machhapuchhare (6993m.), Annapurna IV (7525m.), Annapurna II (7937m.), and Lamjung Himal (6931m.).

After spending sometime in Poon Hill, hike back to Ghorepani for breakfast and then continue trekking towards Tadapani (2630m) which takes about five hours. Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
2950

It is a very easy trek descending gently all the way through rhododendron and oak forests. This is one of the popular destinations for the bird lovers. Ghandruk is a big Gurung village offering good views of Annapurna South, Hiunchuli, Gangapurna (7455m.), Annapurna III (7755m.) and Fishtail. Stay overnight at lodge.

At the beginning of the day, you ascend gently for an hour up to Ghandrukkot (2100m.) and descend steeply to the Kimrung Khola (1700m.). The trail then ascends to Chhomrong- a gateway to Annapurna Sanctuary trek and inhabited by Gurung, one of the major ethnic groups of Nepal. Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
2600

The train in the beginning descends until you cross a small bridge. From here it’s a long steep ascent up to Sinuwa. The path ahead passes through bamboo, rhododendron and oak forests.  Enjoy local farming in terraced landscapes all around. Stay overnight in lodge.

Elevation
3700

The trail ahead is devoid of any villages until we reach Macchapuchre Base Camp. You trek gently ascend through bamboo forests with varieties of rhododendron and oak trees to Himalaya. Another one and a half hour trek reaches you to Deurali and another two hours up to Macchapuchre Base Camp. Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
4170

It is further 2 hours walk to reach Annapurna Base Camp. Annapurna Base Camp is a vantage point to see the Himalayas at a 360 degree turn. Some of the impressive ones include Mount Hiunchuli (6441m.), Annapurna South (7229m.), Annapurna I (8091m.), Annapurna III (7555m.), Gangapurna (7454m.) and Machhapuchhare or Fish Tail (6997m.) etc. You can explore Annapurna South Glaciers in detail. Stay overnight at lodge.

The trail gradually descends passing through bamboo forests. Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
1780

We will descend through Sinuwa and Choomrong. After Bamboo, the trail goes steeply up to the Kuldi Ghar and now the trail is quite flat until you reach Sinuwa. You trek gradually descends to the Chhomrong Khola and you have to follow stone staircase for almost an hour to reach Chhomrong. 1 hr further down will take you to Jhinu Danda.  You can visit a natural hotspring in Modi Khola, which is 20 minutes hike from Jhinu Danda. Stay overnight at lodge.

Day 23: Trek from Jhinudanda (1750m.) to Pothana (1890m) takes about six hours. You will pass through many villages, farms and terraced fields. You will cross Landruk and Deurali villages on the the way. Pothana is a beautiful village surrounded by green forests. Stay overnight at lodge.

Elevation
914

The trek from Pothana to Phedi takes about 3 hours followed by an hour’s drive to reach Pokhara. On your way to Phedi from Pothana you will pass by Dhampus village and beyond that you will enjoy scenic terraced fields and mountain views. Stay overnight at hotel in Pokhara.

Elevation
1400

After breakfast early morning, drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu that takes about seven hours. En route, you will enjoy the mountain views, green sceneries, rice terrace fields, vegetable fields and people being engaged in their daily life activities. If you choose to fly back to Kathmandu, it takes about 25 minutes. There are several flights from Kathmandu to Pokhara from morning to afternoon.

What Is Included ?

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off services by private vehicle
  • 1 night hotel accommodation with breakfast in Pokhara
  • Trekking guide/s
  • One porter for every 2 trekking participants (1 porter carries 25 kilograms of luggage)
  • All meals three times a day (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
  • Accommodation in teahouses (lodges) during the trek
  • Trekking equipments: Sleeping bags, down jackets, duffle bags and trekking poles
  • Entry Permit for Annapurna conservation Area (ACAP)
  • Trekkers' Information Management system (TIMS) card
  • All land transportation: Kathmandu – Bhulbhule by Public bus, Pokhara – Kathmandu by deluxe A/C tourist bus and Phedi – Pokhara by private vehicle
  • Insurance and equipments for all guides and porters
  • First aid kit
  • Tax, VAT and our service charge
  • Rescue assistance (In case of emergency, we will organize prompt and professional rescue services. To arrange timely evacuation/rescue by helicopter, you must be well insured from a reliable travel insurance company that covers both helicopter evacuation and medical treatment cost.)
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu with live cultural performance at authentic Nepali restaurant on the last evening
  • Souvenirs (t-shirt, mug, pen, bag, etc.)

What Is Excluded?

  • Personal nature expenses (Telephone calls, internet, toiletries, battery recharge, hot shower, laundry, soft drinks, beers and any alcoholic beverages)
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for involved staffs
  • Lunch and dinner in Pokhara
  • Meals and hotel accommodation in Kathmandu (even in case of early arrival or late departure, early return from trekking due to any personal reason than the scheduled itinerary)

Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp Trek Altitude Profile

Route Map

Route map

Additional Information

Below is a list of equipment and clothing required for trekking. The necessity of these items depends on the type, altitude, timing and destination of trekking. Appropriate trekking gears are not only required for the comfort/pleasure of your trek but also to improve safety factor.  Please have a look over these items in order to fully prepare and thoroughly enjoy the trekking. 

General Items:

Daypack, Rucksack, Sleeping bag, Duffel bag, Walking Poles, walking boots, sandals, Toiletries (Soaps, Toilet papers, Sanitizers, toothpaste, tooth brush, etc.)

Clothing Items:

Thermal underwear, Down jacket, Shorts, Trekking trousers, Towels, Woolen gloves, Gaiters, Fleece jacket or Pullover, Wind/water proof jacket, Raincoat, Warm socks, buff   

Sun-worn Items:

Sun hat, Sunglasses, Snow goggles, Sunscreen, Lip balm

Gadgets:

Headlamp, Flash light, Binoculars, Cameras (chargers and batteries),  

Liquid/Snacks:

Water bottle/bladder, Water purification Iodine tablets, Energy bars and snacks

Medical Essentials:

First Aid Kit 

Optional:

Altimeter, Compass, Binoculars, Books/magazines, GPS, Pocket knife, Candles (for lodges), Notebook with pencil/pen, etc 

Additional items for camping trek:

Tent, Stove and fuel, Utensils for cooking, eating and drinking, sleeping mattresses

Note: We can also provide sleeping bag, down jacket, duffel bag, walking poles, and First Aid Kit in case if you don’t have one. These items are inclusive of total package price. 

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